The Illustrated Cairo Genizah Book, at Heffers Bookshop

Almost one thousand years ago, the Jews of Old Cairo began to place their worn-out books and scrolls into a hidden storage room - a genizah - of their synagogue. Over the years, they added all sorts of writings to the pile, sacred and secular texts alike. When the chamber was emptied at the end of the 19th century, it held hundreds of thousands of paper and parchment fragments. Now known as the 'Cairo Genizah' , it has become one of the most important sources of knowledge for the history of the Middle East and the Mediterranean world. This book offers the first illustrated introduction to the unique collection of Cairo Genizah manuscripts at Cambridge University Library.

Join Genizah experts Nick Posegay and Melonie Schmierer-Lee as they take you on a journey of discovery through more than 125 years of research at the University of Cambridge, showcasing over 300 stunning, full-colour manuscript images across 12 thematic chapters. From ancient bibles to medieval magic and Renaissance printing presses, The Illustrated Cairo Genizah reveals the forgotten stories of Jewish, Muslim, and Christian communities at the centre of a millenium of World History.

We are delighted to welcome the two authors of the 'Illustrated Cairo Genizah' to Heffers on the evening of the 12th of November to discuss their brand new book.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Heffers Bookshop, 20 Trinity Street, Cambridge, United Kingdom